Summary Of Frederick Douglass: The Guidance Of Knowledge

The Guidance of Knowledge How man views himself and others is closely examined in the Narrative of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, by Frederick Douglass. He examines these views by breaking down the common “intellectual” white man, who has been permitted an education, and by analyzing the primal, faulty nature that Douglass’ fellow slaves and companions are assumed to have. However, Frederick’s narrative shows that the assumed temperament of the slaves actually mirrors those of their owners. The definition of being an “other” to Douglass is how he consistently views himself. Douglass sees himself differently for no longer being ignorant and instead becoming an active pursuant of knowledge. Douglass constantly finds himself under the heel of the intellectuals’ foot throughout his trials, yet consistently remains an unbiased narrator who clearly separates objectivity from emotion. Frederick, as an author, vies into the use of pathos, when examining the cruel management of others. Despite that, Douglass’ accounts when addressing images and symbols he
Yet when he lands on Thomas and Sophia Auld’s doorstep, he is no longer sure how to behave around the kind-hearted Mrs. Auld, from whom Douglass is taught the first three letters of the alphabet. This is quickly shut down by Mr. Auld, who after making a quick succession of inflammatory comments, prompts Mrs. Auld to fully immerse herself into the “customs” of slavery and transform her very benevolent nature into a fiery, cruel woman whose disposition is brutal. Sophia’s teachings become the catalyst for Douglass’ internal forces to kick into gear and prompt him to further his education despite being forbidden to do so. Regardless of being treated this way, Douglass still keeps a clear and keen eye that allows him to narrate and separate what the effects of slavery are, not only towards his owners but other